Orlando Brewing will celebrate the one year anniversary at the Atlanta Avenue location on April 7.

"There were a lot of hardships early on," says John Cheek, President of Orlando Brewing, "but we made it." Cheek says that even opening up was a huge accomplishment. Prior to the Spring of 2006, the partners of Orlando Brewing went through personal and financial challenges, including being forced to move by the State of Florida because of plans to widen I-4.

Since the humble beginnings one year ago, Orlando Brewing has grown its reputation in the beer business with its awarding winning ales. Cheek credits Orlando Brewing's Brewmaster Ed Canty for getting the recognition. "Ed is the best brewer in Florida," says Cheek.

The awards and industry recognition is nice, no doubt, but it is nothing like winning over consumers. One year later, the beer made by Orlando Brewing is available in some of the best bars, restaurants, and resorts in Central Florida. Sales in the Taproom, where you can drink the beer made right on the premises, have been climbing steadily every month. People in Orlando are definitely realizing that great beer can be made right in your own backyard. "We're educating the public one pint at a time," says Cheek, holding his pint glass.

Cheek credits hard work, perseverance, and a sense of team for building the momentum Orlando Brewing now has. Stan Richards, the general operations director, keeps the place running by the book. Gene Lohri, Orlando Brewing's Director of Sales, is always making sure the product being sold is the best it can be. And, of course, Brewmaster Ed Canty combines science, art, and passion in making the finest organic ales in the United States. And he has the medals to prove it.

"I am also very proud of our front line staff," John Cheek says of 'the girls' at Orlando Brewing. "They care about the product, the customers, and they represent the brewery very well." As customers of Orlando Brewing, you can certainly confirm that. After pausing to celebrate the milestone, it's back to work for John Cheek and his team. The next twelve months should be even more exciting and prosperous.

Orlando Brewing sincerely thanks you, our customers, for making our first year great. And we thank you in advance for your support in the future.